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IOPC Director Catrin Evans, who has responsibility for Avon and Somerset, said: “There were a number of people in the Castle Park area and the incident was filmed and posted on social media. We would urge anyone who witnessed events to get in touch with our investigators.”

Avon and Somerset Police confirmed to Bristol Live on August 7 that PAVA spray - which is similar to pepper spray - was used during the arrest, and that Ahmed was charged with assault of a police officer and failing to provide his details.

What is PAVA spray?

PAVA spray is an incapacitant spray similar to pepper spray. It is dispensed from a handheld canister in a liquid stream.

PAVA primarily affects the eyes, causing closure and severe pain. The pain to the eyes is reported to be greater than that caused by CS.

The effectiveness rate is very high once PAVA gets into the eyes; however, there have been occasions where PAVA and CS have failed to work—especially when the subject is under the influence of alcohol or other drugs.

Exposure to fresh moving air will normally result in a significant recovery from the effects of PAVA within 15 – 35 minutes.